It’s a priceless feeling to get special attention from readers and other authors. Knowing this, IBP has decided to publicize authors under the author spotlight category. Check out who the ‘author of the week’ is, connect with them and enhance your marketing strategies.
Why did you write the book? What was your motivation behind it?
This book is an adaptation of a screenplay we did for the first season of a sitcom. We wanted to write something edgy and clever—something where we could poke fun at current political issues in a non-obvious way. In fact, some of the issues are so well hidden that some people miss it. This is exactly what we wanted.
How do you see this book being relevant today?
The book addresses current issues in a humorous and non-offensive (to most people) way. Issues such as Qanon, claims of stolen elections, gender perplexity, conspiracies, “Karens,” and more.
Plus, the readers will encounter common themes they expect in good stories, such as love and disappointment.
Why do you think you are the right person to write this book? How do you think your qualifications or experience make this a better book?
As a social psychologist, I have a unique insight into human behavior. This helps me to write from an apolitical standpoint and poke fun where fun is deserved without political bias getting in the way. Both the extreme right and extreme left can be extremely ridiculous, and worthy of mockery.
How did you come up with the idea for the book?
Spending time at gyms since I was about 14 years old. I found myself saying quite often about fellow gym members, “they would make a great sitcom character!”
Anything else you want readers to know?
This book is also available in audiobook, where you can hear me do over 40 different character voices 🙂
As a Husband and Father of 4, I desire to bring a unique style to writing, speaking, and coaching to keep all age groups engaged and equip you with the right tools to help you achieve and sustain the life you desire to have.
As a child, I strived to be one step ahead of his peers in his mannerisms and dreams for his future life. I desired to be a servant leader everyone would look at who demonstrated the ability to make the right decisions, making others’ lives around me better.
By the age of 11, I had to become that leader in his single-parent household, which began to prepare me for life as an adult. With no strong male presence in my life, it didn’t prepare me for life with his own family. I didn’t know how to be a true man of the house, and Brick-by-Brick was simply an idea masked by misdirection and misplaced identity. There was always a motivation to be better than the family generation I had seen come before me. My environment led me to believe that money was the cure to living a whole, happy life. Except, the older I became, the more that ideology seemed to be flawed.
I have spent the past 14 years learning how to become the man I desire to be, but I never witnessed-learning how to continue being a better Father than the one I never had. Brick-by-Brick has come to life, as I share how each of us can create a solid foundation in our lives regardless of the traumatic experiences we have encountered or the environments surrounding us. Reshaping our minds, putting away the shovels and not being defined by holes they have made in our lives.
I strive to lead my family with the utmost integrity and honor and truly exemplifies the benefit of what a strong foundation can do in your life. I have taken the Brick-by-Brick mindset and impacted others’ lives as you can see the evidence, first, in my leadership at home then, in business and the community around him. When I’m not helping others change their lives, I spend my time with my family, volunteering, and excelling in my career as an Engineer.
I love to exercise, cook, and have a generous heart focused on making everyone else’s life better.
How do you see this book being relevant today?
This book was written for today! What I did was intentionally write this book for future experiences from past experiences and research I spent six years studying. I studied and made it an effort to understand how to create consistent success in our lives, and it wasnÕt until I almost lost it all that I figured out what it was that caused everything to explode. 2020 was a year that impacted everyone Ð but I donÕt think people realize how much of an awakening it was for this generation of our reliance upon everything else around us to tell us who we are as a person. ThatÕs why I start with that year Ð and push and pull the reader into their own thoughts, imagination, and experiences to bring this book to life!
Why do you think you the right person to write this book? How do you think your qualifications or experience make this a better book?
People who come from very little and still experience exponential hardships Ð donÕt usually follow similar stories as myself or end up with a passion to impact the generation that I have. The uniqueness in my situation and experiences in my life have made me the perfect person to write this book about creating sustainable habits for consistent success! ItÕs honestly what makes this book so much better than other motivational books Ð because it places you not only inside of my experience, but it walks you through the lesson the was learned and contributed into the success I have achieved both personally and professionally.
What was an early experience where you learned that language had power?
It was the year my 5th grade teacher, challenged me the very first night of student orientation. I remember walking into the classroom and my mother was speaking with the teacher about how I need to be challenged because I struggle with maintaining focus if IÕm not challenged. Little did I know he was a Marine veteran who knew exactly how to challenge young men like myself to be better in all areas of life. That night I remember him creating a complex math equation on the board and he asked me to solve it. I had never seen this problem before, but he started walking me through the problem with just his voice and it challenged my brain to think differently. From then on it was this constant use of his language to push my brain to do things I didnÕt think it could do Ð that I learned that language you use has the power to change someoneÕs thinking! ItÕs what started the journey of me learning how to do the same and do so through my writing.
How do you balance making demands on the reader with taking care of the reader?
IÕve read so many motivational/self-help books in my life that I grew tired of the writer making demands on the reader that required imitation. I donÕt want TO BE like you, I just wanted to THINK like they did so I could produce those results inside of my own life. I took that philosophy and put that info my writing as the only demand I make from the reader is that they be wiling to challenge the norm of what they thought was possible and what they believe was possible for their life in the introduction! The rest of the book is me delicately demonstrating the problem with one form of thinking Ð and unearthing the solution to their life problems and challenges that exist in changing their focus. They learn how to do that for each major area of THEIR life Ð not trying to become me or imitate mine.
What kind of research did you do, and how long did you spend researching before publishing this book?
I spent 6 years crafting and designing this book. Asking every question to anyone who would offer to mentor me or give me guidance. I never rejected advice Ð I listened and tried to make it better. It wasnÕt about challenging their idea or entering into senseless debates. I was focused on their perspective because I knew they were either older and had more experience, or similar in age but had a different story to tell. I then took what I was reading and practiced it over those years to see which ones led to sustainable growth and repeatable outcomes not just one-time success.
Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with bad or good ones?
I read ALL my book reviews! I think listening to those to paid you with their time and money Ð deserve your humility to read what they wrote about your work. ItÕs a great moment for reflection and indication if your writing produced the intended message to the intended audience! IÕve not received a bad review yet, but I believe itÕs because my book was written to get your brain to generate actions you should take for your life and not teach you how to imitate mine. If I get a negative review, IÕll treat it the same way as I do the positive ones. Ironically, people donÕt like to critique themselves as opening as they do others, but either way, IÕll learn from it and continue to get better! TheyÕre entitled to their opinion as long as itÕs not slanderous or offensive. Those will always be removed.
Do you hide any secrets in your books that only a few people will find?
There arenÕt really ÒsecretsÓ but there are things that if you read too fast Ð you will miss. The reason I wrote the book 72 pages was not because I wasnÕt a strong enough writer, it was intentional. I believe that we all only need to make the smallest changes in our lives that will make the biggest impact on our future. I wanted you to use my book as a guide that will help you regardless of the season of life but available for each aspect of your life that creates the solid foundation you would be creating or building from.
If you had to do something differently as a child or teenager to become a better writer as an adult, what would you do?
If I could do something differently, I would probably have started writing sooner and reading a lot more outside of my school assignments. I think reading is what really makes a great writer Ð and while I developed the habit earlier on, I stopped reading for fun as I got older. I certainly have reunited with my love for reading in recent years, but I wish I utilized the time I had when I was younger to explore possibilities and push my brain to make better decisions. I donÕt regret anything, but I think if I had sought after some of these books IÕm reading today (that were published during that time period) it couldÕve allowed me the opportunity to be more creative. IÕm happy to continue the journey and continue getting better but using my words to create change in others.
What is your favorite childhood book?
My favorite childhood book was The Lord of the Flies! I learned so much from that book itÕs unreal! The amount of psychological education of the human brain illustrated in that book was the best I have seen since I read the book ÒThe Hatchet.Ó It painted a prime example of how capable we are as human beings to trigger survival instincts that we will literally do anything to survive, and these were just kids! ThatÕs how I knew there were adults who also had this survival instinct and will do anything to survive Ð which is why my book focuses that drive and focus on ourselves because once we change our mindset -the things around us can begin to change too!
Have you written any other books, or do you have any books planned for the future? Tell us as much as you are willing to share!
There are plans for another release which will probably be the best book I have ever written! The title will be 20K Mindset: 5 Principles for Sustainable Life Leadership! The release date will likely be in 2023 as we gear up for an amazing year of speaking, workshops, and conferences across the nation. The next big release will be our eBook series where we provide 60 jammed packed pages of ways you can maintain success in your life! Subscribe to For the Youth Podcast on Apple or Spotify to stay up to date on book releases! To learn more about me or if youÕre interested in my hosting an event in your area visit shawnthespeaker.com!
Pete A O’Donnell is the creator and writer of the children’s story website Illadvisedstories.com where kids can listen to free and funny adventures.
He is a graduate of Queens University and a member of the society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. He works as firefighter and EMT, and has a deep interest in history.
The Curse of Purgatory Cove is his first book. It started as a short story when he was a kid but after reading about the pirate ship Whydah, recovered with its treasure off of Cape Cod, his short story about a paperboy became something more.
Author Live Chat with Fans Tuesdays: Your Next Page-Turner 11th January 2022 8PM CST on Facebook page (International Book Promotion)
Author Pete A O’Donnell
Survival of Characters in a Bizarre Place Full of Secrets
Where are you from?
I’m originally born in Texas but was raised in Rhode Island, the smallest state in the US.
Why do you write?
Telling stories has been a passion since I was a child. I love fiction, creating worlds from my imagination. There’s also a part of me that pushes towards writing because it doesn’t come easy. I’m dyslexic and had a tough time learning to read. Writing seemed to be the one thing many teachers couldn’t see me doing.
What do you write about?
My first love is science fiction but I’ve also written a historical novel set here in my home state about our pirate past. I writer children’s stories as well for a podcast I do called Ill-advised stories
Do you have a specific writing style?
I like my stories to move quickly, but I also like them to have a sense of humor.
What are obstacles that come in the way of writing?
I’m a fulltime firefighter/emt and a dad so as I imagine many would say, life itself becomes an obstacles, however I’ve tried to bring my kids into my work, creating the podcast with stories that were first written for them.
What’s the most memorable thing asked/said by a reader about your work?
It’s happened more than once now that a child has told me how much they loved my middle-grade pirate novel. One kid even called it his favorite book.
How long have you been writing?
I’ve been creating short stories since I was a kid, but I started pushing towards creating a catalogue of them around the time I was fifteen. My first novel I finished after college where I studied journalism.
When did you first realize you wanted to become a writer?
When I told my uncle a story about a forest full of trees that could talk to each other. I would’ve been 7 at the time. I had him locked into the tale and when I saw that power at work, I was hooked.
What is your work schedule like when you are writing?
I’m an early morning writer. Usually starting around 5:30
What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
I leave words out when I’m typing. If you went back and read something I wrote before I got to fix it, it would make no sense.
How long does it take to write a book?
I’ve finished seven novels and published four and each one has taken a different amount of time. The pirate book, The Curse of Purgatory Cove was fifteen years with rewrites. Of course, I worked on other things in between.
Do you have suggestions on how to become a better writer?
It’s an obvious one but I would say reading. Go as wide as you can with it too. Read everything, classics, modern works, poetry, nonfiction, graphic novels. Consume as much as you can and treat each piece of work like an opportunity to study. I once heard that the reason dyslexic people read so slowly is because we read every word. We can’t skip along like some readers do but to be a writer means to worry and fret over every single word, to pick that perfect structure to a sentence. You can only pick that up by studying what others have done.
What challenges do you come across when writing/creating your story? Head space is the biggest problem, having time with my own thoughts. When you’re engineering an entire universe, you need space to put your thoughts together.
What do you think makes a good story?
Characters come first. If you a reader doesn’t care about the people in your story you’ve got nothing. The next most important thing is tension. There has to be a constant pulling in every scene, even in the small moments.
What does your family think of your writing?
They’re very supportive reading everything I write.
Do you see writing as a career?
Yes, but it’s a passion first. I have to tell these stories, first and foremost. What happens to them. If they reach a wider audience is the career part that I’m attempting to get a hold of.
Do you have anything specific you’d like to tell the readers?
These stories that I write are the stories I want to read, the worlds I want to dive into and they’re amazing and layered with characters I like spending time with. I would like to welcome the readers to them, to dive in and enjoy the stories the way I’ve enjoyed writing them.
When did you first consider yourself a writer?
Probably when I started producing short stories consistently in high school. Not many have read them but I can still picture every scene vividly.
Latanya Lyons is a passionate author who loves to educate and empower others through her stories of triumph. Having had a stressful childhood, she understands what it feels like to be in most teenagers’ shoes. Despite the challenges she faced, she still managed to become successful in life. Through her first book My Escape, she encourages teenagers who are living in a stressful household or are in a bad situation not to give up in life. For there is always light at the end of the tunnel. Latanya’s vision is all about making a difference in other people’s lives. She wants to see others winning and taking advantage of the many opportunities that life presents.With 11 years of working experience as a Certified Nurse Assistant, Latanya loves being of service to others. She is patient, compassionate, competent, and a hard-working individual who takes pride in everything she does. Committed to her career, Latanya holds an Associate Degree in Allied Health. She aims to make this world a better place by spreading love to every person she meets. When Latanya is not busy helping others, you will find him cooking, running, and skating. Reading books is one of her hobbies and also a stepping stone to becoming one of the best authors.
Where are you from?
Philadelphia, PA
Why do you write?
I write because it helps me reflects on my competences and I learn from them.
What do you write about?
I like to write non-fiction books because I love to write about truth.
Do you have a specific writing style?
Yes, I have A narrative writing style because I like to share information
What are obstacles that come in the way of writing?
As of right now there nothing the comes in the way of my writing because I am A single women with no kids. I live alone and I always have A specific time fame when I work on my writing around my work schedule and my other obligations.
What’s the most memorable thing asked/said by a reader about your work?
I friend of mine that I knew for 15 years told me that I was brave. when I told him that I wanted to become writer and when I give him A free copy of my book. He told me I had A strong mind after reading my book to write about my childhood because he couldn’t tell the world if he had A terrible childhood.
How long have you been writing?
Exactly MY ESCAPE is my first book, and it took me A year to finish.
When did you first realize you wanted to become a writer?
I realized I wanted to become A writer when I would go over my sister house and so how we will always start talking about our childhood. I would say “you know I can write A book about our life story”. My sister thought it was A good idea. Right there I knew I wanted to be writer but, I wanted my first book to be my life story.
What is your work schedule like when you are writing?
When I am writing I don’t start writing till like 12 am in the morning to 5 am because I always been I late owl and it’s the best time for me to stay focus.
What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
Base on the fact this is my first I really don’t have A interesting writing quirk at the moment.
Do you have suggestions on how to become a better writer?
As of right now I don’t have even suggestions on becoming A better writer because I am new to the writing journey. I don’t think I have enough experience to answer this question as of right now.
What challenges do you come across when writing/creating your story?
The challenges I come across in writing is the order I’m going to tell my story and what I am going to talk about in each chapter for everything can connect at the end.
What do you think makes a good story?
A true story when I person can put themselves in your shoes.
What does your family think of your writing?
Well, I only get two family members that I am really close to my sister and my uncle and both are very proud of me, and they support me 100% in my writing.
Do you see writing as a career?
Yes, I do but, I won’t make it my only career.
Do you have anything specific you would like to tell the readers?
Yes, I would like to tell all my readers Thank You for reading my book and taking the time hear my story.
When did you first consider yourself a writer?
I consider myself A writer during the writing of my first book. when I was outlining my book, I didn’t think my book was going to come out like I wanted it to but, after the finish masterpiece and reading the whole book repeatedly. I realized I did A very good job and that I wanted to make writing one of my careers.
Brittany Ziegler was born in California and currently resides on the beautiful island of Maui in Hawaii. She studied marine sciences and biology at the University of Hawaii, as well as dabbled in creative writing and photography. She’s married to the most patient man in the world and spends her days herding her two daughters on sunny beaches, kayaking with humpback whales, photographing sharks, and writing about impossible circumstances. Make Me Exist is her first fiction novel.
Author Live Chat with Fans Tuesdays: Your Next Page-Turner 28th December 2021 8PM CST on Facebook page (International Book Promotion) Make Me Exist
Where are you from?
All over the place, seriously. Born in California but raised in Hawaii… oh, and there was that brief stint in Nebraska, and even New Hampshire for a while. As of right now, I am a Maui girl. We are thinking about taking off to the Caribbean here soon though!
Why do you write?
Probably because I read a ton, and have way too many real life adventures. I’m either ten hours deep into reading some crazy novel, or out on a kayak photographing Humpback whales. Life paired with a love of fiction, has made me an unexpected writer.
What do you write about?
Currently, I am writing an entire series (there are even sub-novels!) that is a mix between science fiction and fantasy with romance sprinkled in. I really wanting to create a world with extreme sci-fi paired with total fantasy, and blend those together seamlessly. I also like a bit of spice, so there are good looking characters living their best adult lives.
How long have you been writing?
I’ve been a full-blown author for about two years now! My first novel was published in October of 2020, and my fourth novel comes out on Thursday December 30th!
When did you first realize you wanted to become a writer?
I was in the middle of getting my marine biology degree at the University of Hawaii, bogged down with math and science courses- for some relief, I took a creative writing class. Covid hit a couple of weeks into that semester, and most of my classes were moved to online. Thanks to all the extra time I had from Covid shutdowns and my creative writing class, I decided to try my hand at writing a *drum roll* sci-fi (I blame all my biology courses)
What is your work schedule like when you are writing?
Mom and underwater photographer by day, thrilling sci-fi/fantasy author by night. I generally wake up and hit the water while visibility is clear, to look for sharks or whales. Do my mom thing the rest of the day (plus nap) and write late at night… sometimes until two or three in the morning.
What do you think makes a good story?
Taking a concept that has been used before and creating something new. It’s been amazing to write about aliens in a totally new way with a fantasy twist.
When did you first consider yourself a writer?
I’ve been a writer for my entire life. I found a thirty page typed short story I wrote when I was nine years old, a spin-off of Jurassic park. (because yes, I was a totally normal nine year old reading Michael Crichton)
Describe yourself in five words
quirky, brave, dumb, generous, unicorn.
What fact about yourself would really surprise people?
I kayak with humpback whales daily.
What scares you the most?
Not having enough time for all of life’s adventures
What makes you happiest?
Watching my children discover adventure and happiness, humpback whales and sharks, and a cold coke on a hot hawaii day.
What books did you love growing up?
When I was younger (pre-teen) I was obsessed with Michael Crichton, Stephen King, and James Patterson. As I grew up, I discovered Diana Gabaldon (Outlander), Margarat Atwood, and the usuals like Stephanie Meyers.
How did you develop your writing?
I always wrote short stories based off books I had read and loved, but my true passion was always poetry. I think even in my action packed sci-fi I write now, my love of poetry really shines through. I will think for days over a single sentence in a 180k word manuscript.
What is hardest – getting published, writing or marketing?
The writing was easy, I swear. I’m self-published, so that was a piece of cake and a personal choice. I am so attached to my characters, I couldn’t imagine someone else owning the rights to them. Marketing? Oh gosh, I am terrible at that. Still managed to make it into the amazon top 100 books though!!
Is your family supportive? Do your friends support you?
My family is the most supportive people in my life. I can’t tell you how many late nights I’ve stayed up finishing a scene, to have my mother-in-law text me and ask how it went, or my husband will let me sleep in and I’ll wake up to coffee. My ohana is always the first to read my books, and give me the best feedback. It’s seriously a blessing.
What else do you do, other than write?
I am a mom to two girls, who are five and seven years old. They are avid surfers and bloggers, it’s crazy. I spent my days underwater with a giant Nikon camera, or in a kayak chasing whales 10-15 miles a day. It’s a crazy life for sure.
If you could study any subject at university what would you pick?
I’ve dabbled in a few different majors. I did creative writing and English majors, marine biology, and even business for a small stint. If I could go back and do it all again? Maybe a few more English courses to work on my grammar.
If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be?
Everywhere. All over the world, forever traveling and never in one place; as long as I’m by an ocean and it’s warm! Which is what my near future is looking like.
How do you write – lap top, pen, paper, in bed, at a desk?
I write my ideas in a notebook, all of my outlines for novels are handwritten. Then I go at it on a computer. I also always have Alexa on command to jot down random lines for dialogue I come up with, or things that just sound pretty.
How much sleep do you need to be your best?
Like, none. I never sleep. It’s a problem. My schedule is usually wake up at 7am and get the kiddos to school. Take a nap at some point during the day. And go to bed at two or three in the morning. It’s tons of fun (sarcastic remark)
Is there anyone you’d like to acknowledge and thank for their support?
My family, always. Most especially my husband, who has been with me every step of the way and is my ultimate support. Also, my fans. All the random people that have read my novel and take the time to contact me, some of them even becoming some of my best friends (shout out to you Sandy!)
Every writer has their own idea of what a successful career in writing is, what does success in writing look like to you?
Keep writing, oh, and it’d be cool to have some people read my books. That’s a nice feeling to.
When you are not writing, how do you like to relax?
With crazy loud music (Usually imagine dragons, movie soundtracks, or Lindsey Stirling.) Loads of funions and chocolate, and a giant leather couch I can sprawl out on.
What do you hope people will take away from your writing? How will your words make them feel?
I want readers to feel a sense of something new. I want readers to be excited and be surprised with every twist and turn. I write so each line is important, and every paragraph has an easter egg. I live for those ‘ah ha’ moments, and hope my readers find joy with that as well!
I began writing back in 2003 after taking a writing course and began the first draft of God’s of Athenia back in October 2003. During this time I worked at a Sainsbury’s supermarket and would write all my idea’s on till roll. When my shifts came to an end my pockets were always filled with till roll paper. From 2003 to 2019 I had completely re-written the first book of the series four times and even had a four year break from writing in-between that period.
As a person I am a massive Lord of the Rings Trilogy fan and I think they are the greatest movies ever made. I am also fan of the Matrix trilogy, original Star Wars Trilogy, the My Hero Academia, Dragonball Z series and most 80’s pop culture. Today I prefer Anime & Manga over any media produced today because I find the work of the Japanese to be most inspiring and exciting.
Gods of Athenia: Book of Souls, is the first of a 4 book story Ark. I have finished the second instalment and I have been writing the third instalment since 2020 and I would like to say that I’m making good progress. As a Japanese comic book fan I am also hoping to one day have this story professionally illustrated in graphic novel form, Well that’s the dream.
Describe yourself in five words
I’m a very creative person
What fact about yourself would really surprise people?
I was the best artist in my primary school at the age of 6. The head teacher told a story about a genie and eagle and everyone in the school had to draw both a genie and eagle and they all went up on the main hall walls. Teachers and students all had to vote for their favorite illustration and my eagle won.
How do you work through self-doubts and fear?
I try and stay focused on the task ahead and ignore any negativity.
What scares you the most?
The deep ocean. I don’t like what I cannot see.
What makes you happiest?
Being around my family. I’m passed the age of always going out and having late nights, I prefer nights in or going out to a restaurant with my family.
Why do you write?
Because not only do I enjoy it, I love to express myself creatively. I have a story to tell and if I don’t write the story will not write itself. I have had breaks from writing in the past (one break lasted four years) but since 2015 I have not stopped.
Have you always enjoyed writing?
Yes but as a child, teenager and young adult I was an illustrator, writing became my life from the age of 22. I have always been more natural with a pencil than with words but over time my writing has become everything and I hardly illustrate anymore.
What motivates you to write?
Gods of Athenia is a four book series and as of now, the first one is released and available. The manuscript for part two is complete but and I am almost half way through the manuscript for part 3. I am very determined to finish all four manuscripts without fail.
What writing are you most proud of?.
Completing my first novel, I have re-written it so many times because I was never fully happy with the finished version. Now to see it finally produced was an amazing moment. I am very proud of it.
What are you most proud of in your personal life?
As a family man, my son, he’s only 9 and the greatest treasure in my life.
What books did you love growing up?
As a child I enjoyed George’s marvelous medicine and Matilda, as an adult Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter.
What do you hope your obituary will say about you?
That I created a fantastic book series.
Location and life experiences can really influence writing, tell us where you grew up and where you now live?
I grew up in Highbury N5 which is in North London, I moved to N7 for a while also. The area is historic but I have lived in Enfield on the boarder of Hertfordshire since 2001. As for life experiences I grew up in the 1980’s which was a very creative era, the cartoons, TV shows and movies were fantastic in those days and as a child I was always heavily inspired by what I was watching.
How did you develop your writing?
I took a writing course back in 2003 and at first my writing needed a lot of work, the first finished version of my manuscript in 2005 was binned straight away. To improve I kept writing and kept reading, I believe the more books you read will help you as a writer.
What is hardest – getting published, writing or marketing?
All have their difficulties, but if you want to get published the traditional way that is by far the hardest in my opinion.
What marketing works for you?
At the moment I am new to marketing so I am trying various things, like social media, being on websites and hopefully podcasts soon. I also have my own website I put together, nothing flashy but here is the URL: http://www.samwrightnovels.com.
Do you find it hard to share your work?
When my work was unfinished yes, but now I’m trying to get my book in front of as many people as possible.
Is your family supportive? Do your friends support you?
Yes, both family and friends are very supportive. I’m blessed. I have lots of friends and family that pre-ordered the novel, I just hope they enjoy it.
What else do you do, other than write?
I love Japanese Anime; I think the Japanese are amazingly creative and the best story-tellers in the world. I also love video games but cannot play like I did 10 years ago; as I’ve gotten older my playing time has greatly reduced. I like to watch football when I can also.
What other jobs have you had in your life?
I started off working in a supermarket and during my time there was when I would write all my original ideas on till roll. By the end of my shift my pockets were full of ideas. Up until 2005 I had no direction with my work life but that year I found a sales roles and have I been doing sales ever since. Do I like it? Not as much as I use to, but I’ve also been a Life Insurance Advisor which was a very enjoyable role.
If you could study any subject at university what would you pick?
Animation.
If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be?
Japan.
Tell us about your family?
My wife and I met when we were young and we married in our early twenties. My son who is now 9 loves video games and already wants to be a game designer. My brother is seven years younger than me and extremely talented in everything he does and my brother-in law is very successful in his career.
How do you write – lap top, pen, paper, in bed, at a desk?
My PC, I only write on laptop if I go on holiday. In the beginning I would type up all my ideas onto my PC from my till roll but now if I have an idea I use Apple Notes.
How much sleep do you need to be your best?
As much as I can get, I rarely have late nights these days.
Is there anyone you’d like to acknowledge and thank for their support?
My wife for her continued support and my late mother-in law who always supported me.
Every writer has their own idea of what a successful career in writing is, what does success in writing look like to you?
Writing full time, I don’t need to be a world-wide success to be happy, if I could get up and write everyday as a job then my dreams have come true.
It is vital to get exposure and target the right readers for your writing, tell us about your marketing campaign?
I agree and at the moment my marketing is mainly targeting all other writers and avid readers. However I am hopefully launching a campaign in January and I want to target young teenagers and adults.
Tell us about your new book? Why did you write it?
It started out as a graphic novel in 2001, after reading Lord of the Rings and a few Harry Potter books I decided that I wanted to write it instead. Gods of Athenia: Book of Souls is about the journey of four unique beings, each of them have a special ability. More than fate has brought these four together and what they don’t know is that they are being hunted by dark powerful aliens across the galaxy.
If you could have a dinner party and invite anyone dead or alive, who would you ask?
Peter Jackson (Director of Lord of the Rings)
When you are not writing, how do you like to relax?
By watching My Hero Academia, Dragonball Z or movies / TV shows based in 1980’s. I also enjoy reading Manga novels and occasionally I’ll play a video game.
What do you hope people will take away from your writing? How will your words make them feel?
I want them to feel excited when reading it; I want them to be eager to read the books that follow.
Dr. Terance Shipman is a 28-year veteran teacher. He spent much of his teaching career working with elementary aged students. In fact, he spent his first 11 years teaching kindergarten! He is proud to say that he built strong relationships over those years and has an incredible network of his students and their parents and co-workers that he has remained in contact with over these years. Dr. Shipman calls this ever-developing network “Team Shipman”. Through Team Shipman, Dr. Shipman offers continual encouragement, leadership, and mentorship to his students, their families, and his professional peers. Dr. Shipman currently teaches middle school and extends membership to Team Shipman to his current students and their families, as well.
Mr. Shipman’s Kindergarten Chronicles are the stories of teaching kindergarten that make Dr. Shipman smile the most when he thinks about his years teaching kindergarten. Each book in the series celebrates the male teacher, in particular the black male teacher. Acknowledging the under-representation of black men in education, Mr. Shipman presents a positive and strong black male image that children need. Through his first series of books, Dr. Shipman’s Kindergarten Chronicles, Dr. Shipman hopes to make kindergarten an exciting and anticipated adventure for students, parents, and teachers, while casting an even wider net for Team Shipman.
Dr. Shipman received his Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from the Tuskegee University in 1992. After obtain this degree, he attended Hampton University in Virginia and obtain a Master’s degree in Elementary Education in 1994. For the next 13 years, Dr. Shipman was an elementary teacher in Atlanta Public School System. Most of his time at APS was spent as a kindergarten teacher, and in 2009 he earned his Educational Specialist degree from University of West Georgia in Administration Supervision and soon after he complete his doctoral degree at Clark Atlanta University in 2013. Since completing his final degree, Dr. Shipman has worked with middle school and high school aged students. And through it all Team Shipman is still growing!
Where are you from?
I was born in Lubbock, Texas, but have been in Atlanta, Georgia for over 49 years. • Why do you write?
I love putting my thoughts on paper and making them come alive. • What do you write about?
I mostly write children stories. I have written poetry and blog post and a dissertation. also. • Do you have a specific writing style?
I have all these thoughts in my head, and they get to a point I just have to get them out. I write an outline first, then just sit and write until I can’t write anymore. • What are obstacles that come in the way of writing?
I have no obstacles. I just do it. • What’s the most memorable thing asked/said by a reader about your work?
A child read the book and said he wish I was his teacher. • How long have you been writing?
I have in some form of fashion have always written something. The children’s books started five years ago. • When did you first realize you wanted to become a writer?
I had this drive to get these stories out of head. I wanted to share them with the world. • What is your work schedule like when you are writing?
I think about the story sometimes for several weeks or months. I write the outline and usually the next day or two I write the story. • What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
I just write the first draft without worry about structure. I have to put it on paper. • How long does it take to write a book?
From the beginning to the end, it can take a little as 6 months to sometimes a year. That is with it being written and published. • Do you have suggestions on how to become a better writer?
I tell people all the time stop thinking about it so much and just write. Don’t worry about the end result focus on getting it done. Let your writing be about you. • What challenges do you come across when writing/creating your story?
The biggest challenge so far has been keeping it short. I have to remind myself of the age group I’m writing for. • What do you think makes a good story?
I think a good story has to touch the human side of us all. • What does your family think of your writing?
They love it. They all are great writers also. • Do you see writing as a career?
Yes, I plan on writing full time soon. • Do you have anything specific you’d like to tell the readers?
Support independent writers. Buy from their websites, go to their book signing and leave reviews. • When did you first consider yourself a writer? I consider it when so many of my former students and parents kept talking about their experiences in my class.
Howdy! I’m a goofball from Texas who spends too much time playing videogames, woodworking, and thinking about dinosaurs. I’m obnoxious in a way that only younger brothers can be, and I live with both a super-supportive wife and an incredibly unhelpful pupper named Ryker.
I hope you enjoy the stories I have to tell!
I’d like to give a big hello to my excellent nephew. May all of you take as much joy in learning and discovery as he does!
Describe yourself in five words: Goofy, excitable, clever, friendly, optimistic
What fact about yourself would really surprise people?: During the early Pandemic, my wife and I made a weekly cooking show. That’s ‘write’, a shy writer cooked for a camera!
How do you work through self-doubts and fear?: Two things: 1) I have an incredibly supportive wife and family, and 2) I collect hobbies like some people collect stamps, so I have a lot of experience being new and bad at things. It helps you to push through self-doubt if you’re used to the feeling!
What scares you the most?: Loneliness. Do you ever think about yourself like, “Man, that guy’s a jerk, hope I don’t get stuck with just him!?”
What makes you happiest?: Learning new things.
Why do you write?: I like to create things. Writing is one of my favorite creative interests because I’ve always believed that books are one of the most interesting and important things that our society has created.
Have you always enjoyed writing?: Yes, but it’s taken a long time for it to catch up to my love of reading!
What motivates you to write?: I have such a supportive circle around me, always willing to listen to me get excited over my stories. But writing (and even the publishing/marketing stuff I’m so bad at) feels like an incremental progress thing. Sure, if you only write for half an hour, you may just end up with a few hundred words. But that’s always more words than you started with! Even if nobody ever reads them, that has value!
What writing are you most proud of?: So, the obvious answer is my first book, Lies and Magic, so I’ll set that aside. While I was finishing up my final edits of that, I saw a short fiction charity anthology called ‘Quick Draw: Fast and Funny Fiction’ accepting applications. It featured a ton of authors I admire, from Piers Anthony (one of my favorites when I was a young reader) to newer favorites like John Hartnes and R.E. Carr. So, I wrote flash fiction in the same world as Lies and Magic, and entered. Not only was my work accepted for publication alongside my heroes, it ended up releasing the same week as Lies and Magic! That was a heck of a week.
What are you most proud of in your personal life?: Off the top of my head, 1) Writing two books and counting, 2) supporting my wife while she teaches young minds, and 3) getting Eagle Scout as a kid.
What books did you love growing up?: The list is long and goofy. Tamora Pierce’s Alanna series really spoke to me, Piers Anthony’s puns matched my sense of humor well, and Ender’s Game showed kids my age being clever, which was the coolest thing.
What do you hope your obituary will say about you?: “Invented time travel, solved world peace, totally rad dude.”
Location and life experiences can really influence writing, tell us where you grew up and where you now live?: I grew up moving up and down the Eastern Seaboard, followed by Texas, where I keep returning. I joke that everyone’s favorite food is related to where they’re born, and my birthplace in Maine still holds up in my love of shellfish!
How did you develop your writing?: Practice, as well as voraciously reading everything I could. A lot of other hobbies, like roleplaying games also cross-pollenate experience.
What is hardest – getting published, writing or marketing?: Absolutely marketing. Writing is fun (and if it isn’t, you probably won’t get far enough to succeed at the other two), and publishing has a lower bar for self-publication. My wife told me that it would be better for my mental health to self-publish and spend the time I’d otherwise use seeking traditional publishing to just keep writing, and I’ve never looked back. Marketing, though… I’m shy and really not good at calling attention to myself and my work. I keep trying and learning, though!
What marketing works for you? That’s a constantly-evolving answer. The easiest marketing of all is when people hear my nephew talk about my book. He’s an amazing kid, a great reader, and a lot like the younger me that I tailor my stories toward.
Do you find it hard to share your work? Yes and no. I don’t shy away from letting people read my stories, but talking to strangers and convincing people to read is incredibly tough for me.
Is your family supportive? Do your friends support you? 100%. My wife listens incredibly patiently, my family markets my book on social media better than I ever could, and my friends have been wonderful through the years of late-night ramblings about writing.
What else do you do, other than write? I woodwork (mostly making pens), play videogames, cook, hike, board game, and generally do most things nerdy or crafty. Also, I sing karaoke incredibly poorly but with gusto.
What other jobs have you had in your life? I’ve done a bunch of high-tech computer work, I worked in HD-DVD when that was a thing, I’ve sacked groceries, and I’ve worked at a Boy Scout camp in the Florida Keys.
If you could study any subject at university what would you pick? This answer probably changes daily. I love learning, so I get excited about all different subjects! Today: the history of cartography.
If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be? Definitely a coast, maybe an island. I know this is meant to be geographical rather than specific, but let’s just say: I’d live in a lighthouse somewhere. That’d be cool. Lighthouses are like castles for explorers.
Tell us about your family? I thorougly believe in the idea of marrying someone smarter than yourself, and my wife Steph proves that I’ve done well. Ryker is our ornery Pomeranian pup, fierce protector and covetor of chicken. My parents and sister have always been amazing role-models to me. All three of them are incredibly capable people with diverse skill sets, and they mean the world to me.
How do you write – lap top, pen, paper, in bed, at a desk? Either at a desk or a portable device. I stay digital because I’m too lazy to transcribe things later, but anywhere seated is at risk of becoming a writing surface!
How much sleep do you need to be your best?: What is sleep? That’s the thing you make characters do when you need to switch chapters, right?
Is there anyone you’d like to acknowledge and thank for their support? I’ve mentioned wife, family, and friends enough that I’ll go specific: David is a friend who has been really good at listening to my ramblings throughout the pandemic. Thanks, boss!
Every writer has their own idea of what a successful career in writing is, what does success in writing look like to you?: Successful writing is writing any amount that someone enjoys reading. Even if it’s just the writer.
It is vital to get exposure and target the right readers for your writing, tell us about your marketing campaign?: Lies and Magic is a middle-grade fantasy novel, so I focus on that age range as well as their teachers and parents. I’ve been focusing my efforts on places those groups frequent, like selling my book at a local board game store. I’m working on setting up school visits (virtual or in-person) to better connect with my people.
Tell us about your new book? Why did you write it? : Lies and Magic is an adventure romp about young runaways who get adopted by a goblin tribe. There is con artistry, self-discovery, and even goblin romance! I wrote it because it’s the kind of story I would’ve loved as a kid, and that’s really my best measure. I don’t know if anyone else would like a book, but I can tell when a younger Will would.
If you could have a dinner party and invite anyone dead or alive, who would you ask? Dead people tend to make for unappetizing company! Jokes aside… Tamora Pierce, Roger Zelazny, and Warren Zevon all tell stories in different ways, so I’d love to just sit and hear them talk about… anything.
When you are not writing, how do you like to relax? Walking and playing games are pretty great. My dog joins me in the former, my friends the latter!
What do you hope people will take away from your writing?How will your words make them feel?: I write happy stories. I hope that kids get the feeling that it’s okay to be their weirdest, most clever self, but mostly I want people to read my stories and feel refreshed, relaxed, and happy. There’s enough seriousness in the world that I’m happy to provide a little bubble of happy stories.
www.liesandmagic.com links to my writing, newsletter, and email address. If you are curious about anything, check it out there!
With her debut book, Joys & Memories: Revisiting Childhood, Ginny Rana endeavours to unravel some natural wonders of the beautiful world that surrounds us. She loves nature and is intrigued by the mysteries and wonders of the ever-growing world that surrounds us. She takes the reader down the happy lanes of childhood and along the paths of nature. In today’s modern world, where people are moving away from the real, natural world, she urges them to embrace and re-connect with nature. Besides writing, she is an active volunteer with the WWF (World Wide Fund for Nature). She loves travelling and exploring new places.
Q1. Where are you from? A. I live in Delhi, India.
Q2. Why do you write? A. I love to pen my thoughts. Writing gives me a sense of creative satisfaction.
Q3. What do you write about? A. I write about almost anything that strikes my fancy, just about anything and everything under the sun.
Q4. Do you have a specific writing style? A. Don’t think so.
Q5. What are the obstacles that come in the way of writing? A. Regular day to day activities disrupt the flow of thoughts and often hinder the fluency and pace of writing.
Q6. What is the most memorable thing said by a reader about your work? A. Once a reader complemented after reading a few of my poems saying that they are so happy. She said they seem to have been written straight from the heart.
Q7. How long have you been writing? A. I’ve been writing since the age of sixteen. But it was more of a leisure activity. Gradually, however, the urge towards concrete and structured writing grew. That’s when I thought of trying to bring together some of my thoughts in the form of a book.
Q8. When did you first realize that you wanted to become a writer? A. When I used to read works of other authors and poets, I used to marvel at the beauty of their work. I would hope that someday, I could also become a writer and inspire readers. For the last may be 10-12 years, I wanted to become a writer.
Q9. What is your work schedule like when you are writing? A. While I’m writing, even when I’m involved with other activities, it’s like my mind is elsewhere. I’m trying to create rhymes or structure thoughts into sentences. The minute, something worthwhile crops up; I stop whatever I’m doing and run to pen down the ideas before they get lost.
Q10. What you say is your interesting writing quirk? A. I love to write about things around me. Even mundane phenomena can take up interesting forms for me or simply be turned into metaphors of life.
Q11. How long does it take to write a book? A. It took me about 2-3 months to write my first book.
Q12. Do you have suggestions on how to become a better writer? A. A lot of reading. And when you write, don’t tie your ideas to rules of grammar or spellings, just write freely.
Q13. What challenges do you come across when writing/creating your story? A. The biggest challenge for me is to think of a worthwhile subject to commence my content. Once I like the idea, then there’s no looking back.
Q14. What do you think makes a good story? A. Well, I haven’t written a story. But from the ones I read, I think an excellent plot and well-developed characters go a long way in making a great story.
Q15. What does your family think of your writing? A. My family is very supportive of my creative pursuit. I think they understand how special writing means to me. Q16. Do you see writing as a career? A. I enjoy writing. It makes me happy and it’s like attaining a creative salvation. My work is my career. If I can carve a career in writing alongside work, it would be a welcome addition.
Q17. Do you have anything specific you’d like to tell the readers? A. A famous quote by Margaret Fuller comes to mind, “Today a reader, tomorrow a leader.” I firmly believe it and would like to tell everyone to read, read and read. You can never imagine how many beautiful thoughts and ideas can ignite your imagination and change your world.
Q18. When did you first consider yourself a writer? When saw the first look of my book, Joys and Memories: Revisiting Childhood, that’s when I considered myself a writer.
Brian Price worked in the marketing and communications industry for nine years. The Public Relations Society of America, American Business Awards, and Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals are a few of the organizations that awarded his work.
But who actually cares about that?
He certainly doesn’t.
Sick of bookshelves being stuffed with bureaucrats’ memoirs and snake-oil entrepreneurs using novels as sales funnels, Brian started wrote a novel, Last Chance California.
If he isn’t reading or writing, Brian is probably playing with his rescue pup, Bucky, or ranting about the government.
Why do you write?
Writing brings me joy. It’s challenging. It’s fun. It’s a battle against oneself.
If I didn’t write, I don’t know what I’d be doing. It’s something I’ve always enjoyed doing. Before I wrote a novel, I was in marketing and public relations, where I spent a majority of my days sitting in someone else’s office writing.
Even while working full-time, I’d still find time to create my own short stories, jokes, thoughts or whatever else popped in my mind. Unfortunately, I’d write my own ideas down during meetings or while on the clock at my job. There were just things I just had to get out and onto paper. There are always things I need to get out. Writing is an obsession with me. It always has been.
What are obstacles that come in the way of writing?
People. Dogs. Existence in today’s world. There’s always a crisis. Something constantly needs my attention.
I often fantasize about owning a cabin in the woods far away from the universe where I can write.
I do my best work when I’m isolated.
Or maybe that’s the pandemic fatigue talking.
What’s the most memorable thing asked/said by a reader about your work?
A good friend of mine read a beta version of Last Chance California, and after he finished, we had a long talk about our fathers. The book helped him articulate some of the things he felt towards his own father. Being able to reach him in that way was one of my proudest moments as a writer.
How long have you been writing?
I started writing before I could even write sentences. I have books from my childhood with pictures and squiggly lines underneath them. I always wanted to be a storyteller. If I wasn’t reading, I was writing. I’d give my family stories and books for holidays and birthdays. Sometimes I’d just write to write. There’s nothing I enjoy more than writing.
Well, no.
That’s not entirely accurate.
There are a few things I do enjoy more than writing.
What is your work schedule like when you are writing?
Wake up. Coffee with my gratitude journal, philosophy reading and general reading. Get a fresh cup. Write some words. And that’s what I do for the rest of the day. I’ll take a few breaks throughout the day to play with pup, eat, or stretch, but for the most part, I’m writing or editing from nine to six. After that, its dinner, some educational videos on famous writers, the publishing industry or how to self-publish before I do some more writing.
What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
I don’t know if it’s a quirk, but I light a certain candle and make music playlists for every book. I love to set the mood for writing.
And if a character is sad, I like to get myself feeling sad. I do the same for any type of mood. That way I can write with passion. I think that translate in my novel. Or at least that’s what I was going for.
How long does it take to write a book? (If you’ve written one -published or non)?
Too long.
Do you have suggestions on how to become a better writer?
Be true and honest with your words. Readers can tell when an author is holding back, not being truthful, or trying to imitate another writer. The key to writing is to write like yourself. Don’t try to be something you’re not. No one can write like you.
What do you think makes a good story?
Good stories need to hit all the human emotions. Desperation. Hopelessness. Fear. Loss. Sadness. Pride. Love. Triumph. Happiness. Add those emotions with flawed and memorable character and a hopeful ending and you might be onto something.
What does your family think of your writing?
No idea. It’s terrifying to be honest. I’m not sure if they enjoy it or hate it. But I’m kinda glad I don’t know how they feel … considering my writing style and subject matter.
Do you see writing as a career?
I hope so.
Not having an alarm clock wake me in the morning, making my own schedule, every day being a weekend, and typing whatever nonsense is floating around in my head for money is something I hope I can get paid handsomely to do.
Do you have anything specific you’d like to tell the readers?
I mean well, despite the main characters I wrote in my book.
No. but seriously. My debut novel, Last Chance California, is dark, hilarious, and raw. You’ll laugh, cry, and finish the book with a sense of hope. I think I really captured the sentiment of millennials and the state of our world in Last Chance California.
But then again, I’m bias.
I wanted to write something that challenged people’s perspectives while highlighting the last effects of child abuse. Child abuse is real. And it’s never talked about it. People don’t understand that child abuse doesn’t just end after childhood. Many of us carry that burden of abuse and it’s secrets for our entire lives. Some of us are unable to face the past. Others? It destroys.
It did both to me for a long time.
When did you first consider yourself a writer?
Writer. Author. Bestseller. Most people throw around these terms for sales or their own ego without considering what the words mean.
A lot of people write, but there aren’t a lot of writers.
I don’t consider myself a writer. At least not yet. I’m hopeful I can get there some day. But who knows?
Title:
Last Chance California
Link:
Description:
Are We All Doomed to Become Our Parents?
Terrified he’s becoming just like his father, Wyatt Lewis, a disillusioned millennial, breaks up with his fiancée to chase his childhood dream – a fresh start in Southern California.
Once in San Diego, Wyatt reunites with an old friend, Summer Harrison, while falling hard for the elusive and free-spirited, Leah Murphy. Summer and Leah show Wyatt a dazzling world littered with lavish speakeasies, egregious drug use, and overpriced cocktails. Surrounded by fake glamor and stuck in a terrible corporate job, Wyatt’s escape turns into his worst nightmare.
Overworked, alone, and filled with regret, the aspiring writer spirals down a self-destructive path that forces him to confront the violent past he ran away to California to forget.
In his raw, hilarious, and dark debut novel, Brian Price showcases our world, on the verge of the COVID-19 pandemic, through the eyes of a sarcastic and stubborn narrator as he attempts to drown his family’s demons.
Title:
Tales From California
Link:
Description:
This short-story collection highlights Brian Price’s writing style while also serving as an introduction to the main characters in his debut novel, Last Chance California.
The collection includes the following tales:
Chicken Nuggets or Bust It took Wyatt over thirty years to experience In-N-Out Burger. The joint turned out to be a powder keg ready to blow with one missed pickle.
When Wyatt Met Summer How did Wyatt meet Summer? Well, she isn’t shy about telling the story. that’s for sure.
The California Palm Reading Seduction Wyatt is struggling in Southern California. He calls out of work and visits a fortune teller for guidance. She invites him over to her mansion for a reading. Things get weird.
Sick and Fired Wyatt’s job sucks. Thankfully, strep throat allowed him to avoid the office for a few days. But that led to more problems for Wyatt’s career.
Abraham Lincoln: Animal Whisperer If not for a reincarnated Abe Lincoln, Wyatt Lewis would have killed his dog while flying home for Christmas.
Title:
pandemic woes and lockdown lows
a poetry collection written during Covid-19
Link:
Description:
wake up. make some coffee. watch the news. pack a bowl. freak out. catch a snooze.
Lockdown poetry. It’s sad. It’s weird. It’ll punch you in the heart.
Brian Price’s first poetry collection delves into themes of love, death, depression, inequality, mental health, and self-righteousness. Written entirely during the COVID-19 lockdowns, the works are the thoughts of a millennial questioning himself and the world he lives in.
Title:
Once Upon a Subway
Link:
Description:
The author of Last Chance California, Brian Price tackles toxic love in this modern romance novel.
Years after their passionate, but turbulent relationship ended, two ex-lovers reconnect during a chance encounter on a subway commute. Is their train ride together a second shot at love or a final farewell?
International Book Promotion 